Can't work out if Wideman and Russell had an off game because they just had an off game, or if Tampas game forced them into mistakes?
Few thoughts: Sven had more jump. He was far from decent, but he wasn't as bad as he was in his last 2. Needs to keep improving, otherwise he'll be back in Addy pronto. Monahan in the first 40 minutes was almost unplayable. He had a much better game than Tampas first line centre, whoever he was. Loved Hudlers snipe, needs to be taking more shots though.
I thought Setoguchi had a solid game by his standards. People need to seriously stop wailing on the guy just for who he is and ignore when he has solid games. He will have plenty of terrible games, then have a whinge. But tonight, he wasn't too bad. As long as he gets waived and sent down when Colborne, Backlund and Raymond return, I won't mind too much. Johnny was pretty poor, but like the Caps game, he was probably still feeling the effects of his illness. Like Monahan, he probably won't get back to his best before we return home. Pleased for Gio and Brodie to keep clocking in the points. To those who suggested splitting them up: NO! They are playing too well together to start messing them about. Hiller didn't have much chance with any of the goals tonight(though he was miles away from the 5th, terrible positioning!), but Ramo should start in Florida on Saturday.
The PP was good, just couldn't quite make the most of some decent opportunities and Bishop shut us down well. For a more negative opinion(well, pretty much fact), Russell and Wideman were hideous. Lets just hope that it was an off night for the pair. They should*touch wood* have an easier night on Saturday.
And lets give credit to Tampa, whilst we shut down their top line quite well, the rest of the team stepped up and we couldn't live with them for large periods. Bishop also had a decent night in goal. They are one of the few East teams I hate playing against and I'm glad we only face them twice a season. I'm gonna get crucified for saying this, but I don't mind them. Fans are pretty terrible(5th goes in and its a cue to head for the exits, er what?!), but I like their team. Play with skill, speed and a desire to score goals. Compare them to a Trotz team and there is plenty to admire.
Next 4 games are an opportunity to get a few wins on the board before a brutal 2nd half of the month on paper. Looking forward to seeing how we react on Saturday already.
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